What to Serve at a Breakfast Tailgate

August 24, 2019

College football is *almost* back. In the South, that is a big deal. My boyfriend + brother have pretty much been counting down since last year’s championship game. CFB kicks off Labor Day Weekend, but a few teams (Florida vs. Miami, Hawaii vs. Arizona, etc.) play today. My undergrad alma mater UNC Charlotte (Go Niners) didn’t have a football team until my junior year. And that meant noon games. Noon games mean a breakfast tailgate because the action starts at 7 a.m.

I think most people would agree that a breakfast tailgate is the worst kind. No one wants to get up that early + more importantly no one wants to cook that early. Some people may be more dedicated but personally cannot have BBQ that early in the morning, so take out isn’t really an option. To combat the breakfast tailgate blues, I’ve come up with some ideas for foods you can cook (and make-ahead) so that you tailgate can still cook ass, even when you can’t sleep in.

Breakfast Tailgate Ideas

Let’s not waste any time + pretend that drinks aren’t one of the most important parts of the tailgate. There are still going to be those who want a beer at 8 a.m. but the more civilized tailgater might appreciate a bloody mary or mimosa bar. Anything with caffeine is sure to be a hit so stock up on coffee + soda mixers.

Once drinks are squared away, it’s time to think about the food. Breakfast is the most important + that’s no different just because you’re eating breakfast at a tailgate. You want to make sure you eat a meal that is filling because an 11 a.m. game means you may be cheering on your team through lunch + let’s face it, stadium food is pricey.

Morning Tailgate Foods

Fruit Skewers – Fruit salad is hard to eat standing around Tiger Lane or The Grove. You can still enjoy some healthy fruit by creating your own kebobs on bamboo sticks.

Chicken + Waffles – Get a nugget tray + some Mini Eggos (or cut up some large ones).

Muffins – Go full size or mini. Blueberry + chocolate chip are the most popular, but poppy seed, apple, etc. are also great options.

Mini Quiche – You can make these little delights yourself, but do yourself a favor + grab the big box from Costco.

Breakfast Sandwiches – Premake these or create a station so that your guests can create the exact sandwich they want. You’ll want to include eggs, cheese, bacon, sausage, avocado, and potatoes. If you want to skip the biscuits, opt for tortillas + make breakfast tacos!

Breakfast casserole – If you’re going to have all the meats above, choose a casserole that doesn’t. My favorite is a hashbrown casserole like Cracker Barrel’s.

Hopefully, the food ideas above your breakfast tailgate will be just a bit more bearable. Even if you’re hosting at home these foods are sure to keep your guests full. You can also throw in an omelet bar for a little extra pizazz.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram to see who I’m cheering on this season!